Rooney’s Red Devils host Hull City, and visiting manager Steve Bruce’s son Alex has been singing the praises of the England international striker, who dispatched the decider against Arsenal in last time out in the Premier League.

“Wayne is always a threat isn’t he?”, commented Bruce junior. “He’s a great player. I watched the Manchester derby and he nearly scored a great goal with a turn when he ran through, only to be knocked off the ball at the end.

“It shows the quality he has and he’s always capable of scoring a great goal at any given moment, like he did at the KC Stadium last season when he produced a little bit of magic with a 25-yard volley from nowhere that got them back into the game. It’s one thing we have to keep on top of.”

Even former United captain Bryan Robson is getting in on the act. “I have always said that I thought Wayne Rooney would be good material,” said the current Red Devils ambassador.

“He [Rooney] leads by example and is always passionate about the game. That is exactly what you want from your skipper. I had no doubts he’d be a great choice.”

Meanwhile, Swansea’s Bony has a similar impact in Garry Monk’s side, having netted against Manchester City last time out, to dispatch his fifth of the season.

The 25-year-old Ivory Coast international has just penned a new deal with the south Wales side, and is looking forward to being successful.

“I was really happy to sign a longer contract,” said Bony. “I have a great relationship with the club. I like the feeling within the club and also the direction I believe the club is heading.

“Signing an extended contract means I can just focus on Swansea and continue giving everything I have for this club. I enjoy it here — I have a good relationship with my team-mates, the coaches and our fans.”